Related Societies

Amines are synthesized most effectively by hydroamination of unactivated alkenes, the enantioselective version of which is best achieved by metal catalysis. Binuclear gold(I) caomplexes can catalyze the hydroamination of alkenes, however, the harsh and stringent reactions conditions required have prevented full development of this metal for synthesis of chiral amines. In addition, the exact catalytic species involved and whether the activating silver salt participates has remained a mystery.

Christophe Michon, Francine Agbossou-Niedercorn and co-workers, Université Lille Nord de France, have shown that a diphosphine binuclear gold(I) chloride complex catalyzes alkene hydroamination under mild conditions with water as the solvent. Silver perchlorate is used to activate the gold center. Their system shows conversions of up to 97 % and good enantioselectivities. They have also solved the mystery of the catalytic gold species, proving that no silver is involved in the catalysis step by solid state X-ray analysis and diffusion-ordered 1H-NMR spectroscopy. This proved the role of the silver salt was in activating the gold and not in the catalysis.

The group also demonstrated a solvent polarity switch for controlling the molecular ion pairs in the catalyst and, subsequently, the chirality of the product.

Sign in Area

Additional Sign In options

Please note that to comment on an article you must be registered and logged in. Registration is for free, you may already be registered to receive, e.g., the newsletter.When you register on this website, please ensure you view our terms and conditions. All comments are subject to moderation.

Our site uses cookies to improve your experience. You can find out more about our use of cookies
in our "standard cookie policy", including
instructions on how to reject and delete cookies if you wish to do so. By continuing to browse this site you agree
to us using cookies as described in our "standard cookie policy".

Our site uses cookies to improve your experience. You can find out more about our use of cookies
in our "standard cookie policy", including
instructions on how to reject and delete cookies if you wish to do so. By continuing to browse this site you agree
to us using cookies as described in our "standard cookie policy".